Best Pastrami Sandwich Recipe – Freshly Ingredients
Nothing pairs better with a hearty pastrami sandwich than a side of crispy potato chips or a refreshing pickle. If you’re in the mood for something more wholesome, a bright green salad might do the trick.
I still remember the first time I bit into a pastrami sandwich stacked high with tender meat and creamy, zesty dressing. It was love at first bite, and now I’m excited to share my take on this classic sandwich.
Pastrami sandwiches have a cherished place in American food culture. With origins tracing back to Jewish delis in New York City, this sandwich has transformed into a staple not just in delis but also in homes everywhere.
The combination of flavorful pastrami, tangy dressing, and rich Swiss cheese makes it a favorite among many. Whether you’re making lunch for yourself or hosting friends for a casual gathering, this recipe is straightforward and loaded with flavor. Let’s dive into creating the best pastrami sandwich you’ve ever tasted!
The best pastrami sandwich marries quality ingredients and exciting flavors into a handheld meal. This version features sliced pastrami piled between two slices of soft bread, complemented by crunchy coleslaw and a homemade Russian dressing that adds depth to each bite. It’s a filling option that satisfies both hunger and taste buds, all compiled into one glorious sandwich.
Ingredients You'll Need To Make This Dish
To make this delicious pastrami sandwich, gather the following ingredients:
For the Russian Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons chili sauce (look for it near the ketchup)
- 1 tablespoon horseradish sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to your taste preference)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt, to taste
For the Sandwich:
- 1 cup shredded coleslaw
- 2-4 tablespoons of Russian dressing (adjust based on desired flavor)
- 2 slices of Sara Lee® Artesano™ Bread
- 7 oz sliced pastrami (you can adjust the amount for a meatier sandwich)
- 2 slices of Swiss cheese
- A handful of sliced pickles (hello, crunch!)
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Ingredients From : showmetheyummy.com
How to Make This Best Pastrami Sandwich Recipe
Ready to create a sandwich that’ll become your new favorite? Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a mouthwatering pastrami sandwich in no time.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Make the Russian Dressing
First, let’s whip up that zesty Russian dressing. In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, chili sauce, horseradish, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if necessary. I like to let it chill in the refrigerator while I prepare the sandwich; this allows the flavors to mingle.
Step 2: Prepare the Coleslaw
Next, grab your shredded coleslaw and toss it with the Russian dressing. Start with a couple of tablespoons of dressing, then add more according to your preference. You want the slaw to be coated well but not swimming in dressing. Once combined, set the coleslaw aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich
Now it’s time to bring this sandwich to life! Spread a layer of Russian dressing on one side of each slice of bread. On one slice, pile on the pastrami, making sure to cover the bread evenly. Add the Swiss cheese on top of the pastrami, followed by the dressed coleslaw.
Step 4: Top and Serve
Finish the sandwich by placing the other slice of bread, dressing side down, on top of the coleslaw. Press down gently to help the flavors blend. You can enjoy it cold, or if you prefer, warm it up. If you choose to warm it, a skillet works beautifully—just a few minutes on each side until it’s toasted and the cheese is melting is perfect.
Step 5: Enjoy!
And voilà, your pastrami sandwich is ready. Dig in and relish every bite! If you enjoy this recipe, take five seconds to rate it below. I appreciate your feedback!
Tips & Tricks
- Opt for Quality Ingredients: The flavors of your pastrami sandwich hinge on the quality of the ingredients you choose. Look for high-quality pastrami and delicious artisanal bread.
- Mix It Up: Feel free to add extras like sliced pickles for crunch or banana peppers for a spicy kick to your sandwich.
- Toast the Bread: Lightly toasting the bread can give your sandwich some nice texture and help prevent it from getting soggy.
- Experiment with Dressings: If you want a different spin, try adding a drizzle of Dijon mustard or some honey for a sweet contrast.
- Make It Ahead: This sandwich can easily be prepared in advance. Just keep the components separate until you’re ready to serve to avoid sogginess.
How Do You Store The Leftovers?
If you have leftover pastrami sandwiches, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store them in the refrigerator. They’re best eaten within a couple of days. If the sandwich is assembled, it might become a little soggy, so you may want to store the dressing and slaw separately and assemble the sandwich when ready to eat.
What Sides Would Complement?
Here are some sides that would pair wonderfully to round out your meal:
- Potato Chips:Crispy and salty, chips add a satisfying crunch that complements the sandwich’s hearty taste.
- Pickles:Dill or bread-and-butter pickles introduce tanginess and freshness, cutting through the richness of the sandwich.
- Sweet Potato Fries:Their natural sweetness balances the savory flavors of the pastrami.
- Cole Slaw:A classic pairing, you can serve extra coleslaw on the side for that crunchy texture.
- Fruit Salad:A vibrant fruit salad brings a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sandwich.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Best Pastrami Sandwich Recipe?
Consider these substitutions if you want to tweak the classic recipe:
- Turkey Pastrami:A leaner option, turkey pastrami still offers a great taste if you want a lower-fat sandwich.
- Whole Wheat Bread:For added fiber, switch to whole wheat or another whole-grain bread.
- Provolone Cheese:For a different flavor profile, try using provolone instead of Swiss cheese.
- Greek Yogurt in Dressing:To reduce calories, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in your dressing.
- Vegan Slaw:For a plant-based option, you can create a vegan coleslaw using a dairy-free mayo.
Conclusion
Creating the perfect pastrami sandwich is straightforward and truly rewarding. From mastering the homemade Russian dressing to layering your favorite ingredients, this recipe delivers on taste and satisfaction. It’s the kind of sandwich that brings people together, whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying it solo on a busy lunch break.
So grab your ingredients, jump into the kitchen, and savor every delicious bite of your creation. Enjoy!
Pastrami sandwiches have a cherished place in American food culture. With origins tracing back to Jewish delis in New York City, this sandwich has transformed into a staple not just in delis but also in homes everywhere.
Ingredients
To make this delicious pastrami sandwich, gather the following ingredients:
For the Russian Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons chili sauce (look for it near the ketchup)
- 1 tablespoon horseradish sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to your taste preference)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt, to taste
For the Sandwich:
- 1 cup shredded coleslaw
- 2-4 tablespoons of Russian dressing (adjust based on desired flavor)
- 2 slices of Sara Lee® Artesano™ Bread
- 7 oz sliced pastrami (you can adjust the amount for a meatier sandwich)
- 2 slices of Swiss cheese
- A handful of sliced pickles (hello, crunch!)
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Russian Dressing
1
First, let’s whip up that zesty Russian dressing. In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, chili sauce, horseradish, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if necessary. I like to let it chill in the refrigerator while I prepare the sandwich; this allows the flavors to mingle.
Step 2: Prepare the Coleslaw
2
Next, grab your shredded coleslaw and toss it with the Russian dressing. Start with a couple of tablespoons of dressing, then add more according to your preference. You want the slaw to be coated well but not swimming in dressing. Once combined, set the coleslaw aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich
3
Now it’s time to bring this sandwich to life! Spread a layer of Russian dressing on one side of each slice of bread. On one slice, pile on the pastrami, making sure to cover the bread evenly. Add the Swiss cheese on top of the pastrami, followed by the dressed coleslaw.
Step 4: Top and Serve
4
Finish the sandwich by placing the other slice of bread, dressing side down, on top of the coleslaw. Press down gently to help the flavors blend. You can enjoy it cold, or if you prefer, warm it up. If you choose to warm it, a skillet works beautifully—just a few minutes on each side until it’s toasted and the cheese is melting is perfect.
Step 5: Enjoy!
5
And voilà, your pastrami sandwich is ready. Dig in and relish every bite! If you enjoy this recipe, take five seconds to rate it below. I appreciate your feedback!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 2
Amount Per Serving
% Daily Value *
Total Fat25g39%
Saturated Fat8g40%
Cholesterol83mg28%
Sodium1887mg79%
Potassium406mg12%
Total Carbohydrate30g10%
Dietary Fiber2g8%
Sugars10g
Protein31g62%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Opt for Quality Ingredients: The flavors of your pastrami sandwich hinge on the quality of the ingredients you choose. Look for high-quality pastrami and delicious artisanal bread.
- Mix It Up: Feel free to add extras like sliced pickles for crunch or banana peppers for a spicy kick to your sandwich.
- Toast the Bread: Lightly toasting the bread can give your sandwich some nice texture and help prevent it from getting soggy.
- Experiment with Dressings: If you want a different spin, try adding a drizzle of Dijon mustard or some honey for a sweet contrast.
- Make It Ahead: This sandwich can easily be prepared in advance. Just keep the components separate until you’re ready to serve to avoid sogginess.
Charlotte Shapiro is a registered dietitian and the author of Freshly Ingredients, a blog dedicated to easy, nutritious, and flavorful recipes. Based in Alaska, Charlotte draws inspiration from local ingredients and diverse cuisines to create balanced meals that are simple to prepare. With a passion for making healthy eating accessible, she shares practical tips and recipes that fit into busy lifestyles. Through her blog, Charlotte aims to empower readers to enjoy wholesome, home-cooked meals without the hassle.